Klarinet Archive - Posting 000000.txt from 1996/05

From: Greg Baker <BAKERG01@-----.EDU>
Subj: Re: Frustration and Starting Over
Date: Wed, 1 May 1996 01:32:54 -0400

Dear Mitch,

Burt Hara, principal clarinetist of the Minnesota Orchestra, once told the
clarinet studio class at the U of M that a large majority of problems related
to playing the clarinet can be traced abck to a lack of air. I have found that
he hit the nail right on the head when it comes to articulation, especially
staccato. I am sure (in fact I hope) that this is not the first time you have
heard this.

>From my own personal experience, I have found that when I lack the necessary
support to get enough air through the clarinet, I try to make up for it by
*supporting* with parts of my body that aren:t meant to support anything, and
sometimes parts that aren:t intended to move at all. OUCH!

That:s about all I have to say. If I am way off the mark, please let me know,
but I just thought I would share my 2 cents worth. Also, I want you to know
that your decision to pick up the clarinet again after all these years is
great. I SUPPORT you all the way (pun fully intended).

Greg Baker